Ovarian Cyst Removal -- Laparoscopic Surgery

Definition

Ovarian cyst removal
is surgery to remove a
cyst
or cysts from one or both of your ovaries.
A laparoscopic surgery uses small incisions and specialized tools. It may offer faster recovery times than
open surgery
.

Talk to your doctor about what action should be taken if cancer is found during surgery. One option is to remove the ovary.

Leading up to the surgery:

Talk to your doctor about your medications. You may be asked to stop taking some medications up to one week before the procedure.

Arrange for a ride to and from the hospital. Also, arrange for someone to help you at home.

Do not eat or drink for at least eight hours before the surgery.

Anesthesia

General anesthesia
—blocks pain and keeps you asleep through the surgery; given through an IV in your hand or arm

Local anesthesia—just the area that is being operated on is numbed; given as an injection and may also be given with a sedative

Description of the Procedure

A small incision will be made just below the navel. Next, a laparoscope will be inserted. This is a thin tube with a camera on the end. To allow the doctor to better view the organs, carbon dioxide gas will be pumped into the abdomen. The laparoscope will be used to locate the cyst. When it is found, one or two more incisions will be made. Surgical instruments will be inserted to remove the cyst. Tissue may be removed for testing. If cancer is found, both ovaries may need to be removed. After the cyst is removed, the instruments will be removed. The incision area will be closed with stitches or staples.

In some cases, the doctor may switch to an
open surgery
. A larger incision will be made in the abdomen to do the surgery.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.